On Veterans Day, Branded One Fitness in Las Vegas became a hub of resilience and community as people gathered for the annual ‘Chad’ workout. This challenging event honors a fallen veteran who died by suicide, bringing together veterans and civilians to support one another through physical and emotional challenges. The gym, owned by Nick McCombs, provides a unique safe space for local heroes, fostering healing and a sense of belonging for those who have served.
Honoring Sacrifice Through a Demanding Challenge
The ‘Chad’ workout is not for the faint of heart. It consists of 1,000 box step-ups, an exercise designed to test the limits of physical and mental endurance. The event is a powerful tribute, with each step symbolizing the ongoing struggles many veterans face.
Participants from all backgrounds join in, united by a shared respect for military service. The workout serves as a physical manifestation of the support system Branded One Fitness strives to build for veterans and first responders in the Las Vegas community.
A Veteran’s Journey from Despair to Confidence
For army veteran Jimmy Hardy, Branded One Fitness was a lifeline. After losing his leg in a motorcycle crash and struggling with unemployment, Hardy felt lost. “I thought I’m a soldier, who doesn’t want to employ a soldier who doesn’t want me,” he shared. “I just thought that nobody knew me for my worth.”
Joining the gym changed his perspective entirely. He found a community that looked past his disability and the stereotypes of CrossFit. Instead of judgment, he found acceptance and the confidence to rebuild his life.
The camaraderie among veterans at the gym is a vital part of the healing process. “We all push each other, we crack those military jokes and really kind of help keep it alive even though it’s a different version of ourselves,” Hardy explained. This shared understanding creates an environment where veterans feel truly seen and supported.
A Welcoming Space Built on Respect and Support
Nick McCombs, the owner of Branded One Fitness, may not have a military background, but his dedication to service members is clear. Inspired by friends and family who served, he opened the gym in 2016 with a specific mission: to help disabled veterans and first responders reintegrate into the community.
“They don’t know if they belong,” McCombs said. “I wanted to blend them back into the community, get them feeling like they are normal people again.” To achieve this, the gym proudly displays flags from every military branch, a constant reminder of unity and respect.
One of the gym’s most significant initiatives is offering free memberships to disabled veterans and first responders. This program currently supports about 50 individuals, giving them a consistent and safe place to manage physical and emotional stress.
| Benefit Provided | Details |
|---|---|
| Free Memberships | Offered to all disabled veterans and first responders. |
| Supportive Community | A peer network for encouragement and understanding. |
| Honoring Atmosphere | Military flags and a culture of respect for service. |
More Than a Workout, a Lifeline for Mental Health
The support at Branded One Fitness extends far beyond physical training. The gym has become a critical resource for veteran mental health, a topic of growing concern nationwide. Statistics reveal the depth of the issue, with studies showing that about 30% of veterans experience PTSD.
McCombs recognized a gap in local services. “There just wasn’t somewhere they could come to day in and day out to be able to release the physical angst inside,” he noted. By providing a free and welcoming space, the gym offers a solution.
The facility acts as a hub for comprehensive support, helping veterans navigate the challenges of civilian life. This is accomplished through several key areas:
- Peer Support: Regular opportunities for veterans to connect and share their experiences in a safe environment.
- Mental Health Resources: Connecting members with professional counseling and support specialized for veteran care.
- Community Events: Hosting workshops and gatherings that focus on overall well-being and personal growth.
Initiatives like these are crucial, as research indicates that veterans who participate in physical fitness programs often report improved mental health.
Expanding the Mission to Serve More Heroes
Branded One Fitness is committed to growing its impact. The gym has plans to expand its services to support even more veterans and first responders in the Las Vegas area. Future initiatives include developing new training programs tailored to different disabilities and strengthening partnerships with local mental health organizations.
The goal is to create a fully integrated support system that addresses the physical, mental, and emotional needs of its members. Through community outreach and awareness events, the gym also hopes to shine a brighter light on the importance of veteran mental health.
Long-time member Mark Bennett captured the gym’s spirit perfectly. “When I see the first daffodils blooming in our garden, it reminds me of the hope and renewal we strive for every day at Branded One,” he said. It is a place that not only builds stronger bodies but also cultivates resilience and a powerful sense of community.
